Electrically controlled apparatus

ABSTRACT

An electronically controlled apparatus of the present invention includes: an input-output section, which electronically processes and outputs input data; a control section, which electronically controls the input-output section according to operating status data of each component of the input-output section; a managing section, which monitors the operating status data of each component of the input-output section, so as to store and manage the operating status data with corresponding time information of the operating status data; and a processing section, which creates graphic display of the operating status data in a given time scale according to the operating status data and the time information. With the electronically controlled apparatus, it becomes easier to manage regular inspections and replenishing expendables, without lowering an activity rate.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronically controlledapparatus that monitors an operating status of each apparatus componentso as to display an operating status of the apparatus, as required, inthe form of graphic display (level display) that is highly recognizableand allows the electronically controlled apparatus to be easily managed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In today's network environment, an electrically controlledapparatus connected to a network is often shared by multiple users. Anexample of such an electrically controlled apparatus is a printerconnected to a network. Such a printer operates to receive a series ofjobs that were requested for output by multiple clients and the printerprints out the jobs in the order they were received. This is aconvenient way of automatically making prints of requested jobs.

[0003] In the last years, there has been commercialized a complex systemthat provides a scanner (copier), a facsimile, and a printer inintegrated form as a printer apparatus complex. The printer apparatuscomplex operates such that the printer successively outputs image datathat was entered in each mode of the apparatus, such as a scan mode.

[0004] However, the electronically controlled apparatus that is sharedby multiple users, or that with a plurality of modes (plural paths ofimage entry) is associated with a problem. Namely, it may take time toprocess a requested new job when the activity rate of the electronicallycontrolled apparatus is high and the apparatus is operating at its peakwith a plurality of jobs.

[0005] Further, operations of the electronically controlled apparatusneed to be arrested when supplying expendables or replacing andadjusting (inspecting) components, which needs to be performed regularlyto maintain a stable environment for the electronically controlledapparatus. Arresting operations of the electronically controlledapparatus, however, is inconvenient for the users and management of theapparatus should ideally be carried out to cause as few problems aspossible for the users.

[0006] A recently proposed electronically controlled apparatus isprovided with a monitoring system that enables the administrator orother users to grasp the operating status of the apparatus. This isachieved by the functions of the electronically controlled apparatus,whereby the operating history of the apparatus, managed and stored, isdisplayed in the form of a list or printed out, so that theadministrators or users can see the history of operating status of theapparatus.

[0007] Such a monitoring system, however, poses a great difficulty bothfor the common users and the administrator to know the operating statusbecause the system only displays a list. This is troublesome for theuser of the apparatus when the regular inspection needs to be carriedout at the time when the activity rate (operating status) of theelectronically controlled apparatus is high.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to providean electronically controlled apparatus that has a function of managingan operating status of the apparatus and displaying, based on themanaged data, the operating status of the apparatus in the form ofgraphic display with a time axis, so as to enable users to request a newjob or make reservations by referring to the graphically displayedoperating status of the apparatus.

[0009] In order to achieve this object, an electronically controlledapparatus of the present invention includes: an input-output section,which electronically processes and outputs input data; a controlsection, which electronically controls the input-output sectionaccording to operating status data of each component of the input-outputsection; a managing section, which monitors the operating status data ofeach component of the input-output section, so as to store and managethe operating status data with corresponding time information of theoperating status data; and a processing section, which creates graphicdisplay of the operating status data in a given time scale according tothe operating status data and the time information.

[0010] According to this configuration, by the provision of theprocessing section that creates graphic display of the operating statusof each component, the operating status of each component can begraphically displayed. This enables a user to visually confirm a load oneach component and its surrounding environment, allowing the user togive new instructions or consider other options based on the graphicallydisplayed operating status.

[0011] The foregoing configuration is also advantageous for theadministrators. Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators toperform daily management, such as replenishing of expendables such aspaper or a developer, so as to prevent operations of each component frombeing arrested.

[0012] In order to achieve the foregoing object, another electronicallycontrolled apparatus of the present invention includes: a plurality ofprocessing units, each including an input-output section, whichelectronically processes and outputs input data; and a control section,which electronically controls the input-output section according tooperating status data of each component of the input-output section; amanaging section, which monitors the operating status data of eachcomponent of each processing unit, so as to store and manage theoperating status data with corresponding time information of theoperating status data; and a processing section, which creates graphicdisplay of the operating status data in a given time scale according tothe operating status data and the time information.

[0013] According to this configuration, the operating status of theapparatus complex is graphically displayed for each processing unit(scanner unit, printer unit, fax unit, etc.). This enables a user tovisually confirm a load on each processing unit and its surroundingenvironment.

[0014] Thus, the foregoing configuration allows the user to moreaccurately give new instructions or consider other options based on thegraphically displayed operating status of each processing unit. Theforegoing configuration is also advantageous for the administrators.Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators to perform dailymanagement, such as replenishing of expendables such as paper or adeveloper, so as to prevent operations of each component of eachprocessing unit from being arrested.

[0015] In order to achieve the foregoing object, yet anotherelectronically controlled apparatus of the present invention is providedwith a plurality of processing modes for data processing, the processingmodes being provided for an input-output section that electronicallyprocesses and outputs input data, and the electronically controlledapparatus includes: a managing section, which monitors operating statusdata of the processing modes, so as to store and manage the operatingstatus data with corresponding time information of the operating statusdata; and a processing section, which creates (processes) graphicdisplay of the operating status data in a given time scale for eachprocessing mode according to the operating status data and the timeinformation.

[0016] According to this configuration, the operating status of each ofthe processing modes of the apparatus complex is graphically displayed.This enables a user to visually confirm a load on each processing modeand its surrounding environment, allowing the user to give newinstructions or consider other options based on the graphicallydisplayed operating status of each processing mode. The foregoingconfiguration is also advantageous for the administrators. Namely, itmakes it easier for the administrators to perform daily management, suchas replenishing of expendables such as paper or a developer, so as toprevent operations of each component of each processing mode from beingarrested.

[0017] For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of theinvention, reference should be made to the ensuing detailed descriptiontaken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a relevant portion of anelectronically controlled apparatus according to the present inventionand of an entire system structure with the electronically controlledapparatus connected to a network.

[0019]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the entire system structure.

[0020]FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an operator panel of theelectronically controlled apparatus.

[0021]FIG. 4 is a table showing a managing table of the electronicallycontrolled apparatus.

[0022]FIG. 5 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an example ofgraphic display displaying an annual operating status (print counts) inthe operator panel.

[0023]FIG. 6 is a magnified view of the graphic display of FIG. 5.

[0024]FIG. 7 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an example ofgraphic display displaying a monthly operating status (print counts) inthe operator panel.

[0025]FIG. 8 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an example ofgraphic display displaying a weekly operating status (print counts) inthe operator panel.

[0026]FIG. 9 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an example ofgraphic display displaying a daily operating status (print counts) inthe operator panel.

[0027]FIG. 10 is a magnified view of the graphic display of FIG. 9.

[0028]FIG. 11 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an exampleof graphic display displaying a monthly operating status (scannercounts) in the operator panel.

[0029]FIG. 12 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an exampleof graphic display displaying a monthly operating status (FAX counts) inthe operator panel.

[0030]FIG. 13 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an exampleof graphic display displaying a monthly operating status (total counts)in the operator panel.

[0031]FIG. 14 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing an exampleof graphic display displaying a daily operating status (print counts)with a reservation icon in the operator panel.

[0032]FIG. 15 is a plan view of the operator panel for selecting areservation mode, after specifying a reservation time with thereservation icon.

[0033]FIG. 16 is a plan view of the operator panel after selecting acopy mode for the reservation.

[0034]FIG. 17 is a plan view of the operator panel after selecting a FAXmode for the reservation.

[0035]FIG. 18 is a plan view of the operator panel after selecting aprint mode for the reservation.

[0036]FIG. 19 is a plan view of the operator panel, indicating that thereservation has been completed.

[0037]FIG. 20 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing one exampleof graphic display of a daily operating status (total counts) with thereservation icon in the operator panel.

[0038]FIG. 21 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing one exampleof graphic display displaying an annual operating status (print counts)with an optimum level in the operator panel.

[0039]FIG. 22 is a magnified view of the graphic display of FIG. 21.

[0040]FIG. 23 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing one exampleof graphic display displaying a monthly operating status (print counts)with an optimum level in the operator panel.

[0041]FIG. 24 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing one exampleof graphic display displaying a weekly operating status (print counts)with an optimum level in the operator panel.

[0042]FIG. 25 is a plan view of the operator panel, showing one exampleof graphic display displaying a daily operating status (print counts)with an optimum level in the operator panel.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0043] [First Embodiment]

[0044] One embodiment of the present invention is described below withreference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 25.

[0045] One application of a managing system of an electronicallycontrolled apparatus according to the present invention is shown, forexample, in FIG. 2. In this example, a printer apparatus 1 connected toa network is provided as the electronically controlled apparatus.

[0046] The printer apparatus 1, which is the core of the presentmanaging system, is connected, at all times or upon request, to varioustypes of electrical apparatuses or devices, such as a scanner apparatus(processing unit) 3, a personal computer 4, a PDA terminal 5, and anexternally provided facsimile (FAX, processing unit) apparatus 6, viacommunication paths 2 such as a network. The printer apparatus 1 is ableto successively make prints of image data that are transmitted fromthese electrical apparatuses or devices.

[0047] The managing system of the present invention, working in thisenvironment, monitors operating statuses of various components of theprinter apparatus 1, so as to manage and store the monitored informationas operating status information. Upon request for confirmation of theoperating status, the managing system refers to the managed operatingstatus information and indicates an operating rate (activity rate) ofeach component of the printer apparatus 1 in easily recognizable form,for example, in the form of graphic display.

[0048] The printer apparatus 1 includes, as shown in FIG. 1, a managingsection 11 and a processing section 12, and is connected to theforegoing electrical apparatuses and devices, which are peripheraldevices connectable to the printer apparatus 1, via the communicationpaths 2 such as a network. The managing section 11 is provided to managean operating status of each component of the printer apparatus 1. Theprocessing section 12 is provided to process the operating status intographics based on information of the operating status managed by themanaging section 11.

[0049] The printer apparatus 1 is provided with various types ofinterfaces, such as a network interface card (NIC, input-output section,communicating section) 13, which enables the printer apparatus 1 tocommunicate with or connect to the electrical apparatus or device suchas the personal computer 4 on the network.

[0050] The printer apparatus 1 is also provided with a radiocommunication interface (“IrDA” in FIG. 1, input-output section,communicating section) 14, such as IrDA or Bluetooth (registeredtrademark), through which the printer apparatus 1 is temporarilyconnected, as required, to the electrical apparatus or device, so as toenable the printer apparatus 1 to output an image based on the imagedata from the electrical apparatus or device.

[0051] In addition, the printer apparatus 1 is able to establishbi-directional communications (send/receive images) with the externallyprovided FAX apparatus 6 via a FAX unit (input-output section,communicating section) 15. The printer apparatus 1, via an I/F(input-output section) 16, is also able to receive image data of adocument that was turned into data in the scanner apparatus 3. Further,the printer apparatus 1 may print (input-output) the image data in acopy mode.

[0052] The image data from the external electrical apparatus or deviceand through the interfaces 13, 14, 15, and 16 is subjected to imageprocessing in an ICU (image data processing section) 17. A recordingsection (input-output section) 19 carries out the operation of recording(e.g., printing) based on the image data.

[0053] The printer apparatus 1 further includes a CPU (control section,setting section) 18. The CPU 18 controls each component of the printerapparatus 1 according to pre-defined programs. In particular, the CPU 18delicately controls each image forming process of the recording section19, so as to enable image recording based on the image data sent fromthe ICU 17.

[0054] The CPU 18 also manages an operator panel (“O.P.” in FIG. 1,instructing section) 20 that has a display section 20 a whose uppersurface makes up a transparent touch panel. The CPU 18 monitorsinstructions entered via the operator panel 20 by an operator (user,administrator), so as to grasp the content of the entered instructionsand control an operation of each component of the printer apparatus 1.In addition, the CPU 18 carries out the operation of notifying(displaying) guidance information concerning the printer apparatus 1 tothe operator.

[0055] The managing section 11 monitors an operating status of theprinter apparatus 1 at all times, so as to obtain operating statusinformation and its corresponding time information. The managing section11 stores the information in the form of information that relates to anoperating status.

[0056] One feature of the present invention is that the processingsection 12 has a function of graphically displaying the operating statusof the printer apparatus 1 (e.g., a graphic in which the horizontal axisindicates time).

[0057] The processing section 12 computes an operating status within apredetermined time period of each component of the printer apparatus 1in percent, where the unit of the time axis (time scale) on thehorizontal axis of the graphic display is year, month, day, or second.In this way, the processing section 12 converts information of theoperating status into graphic display.

[0058] For example, when the time axis has one-hour time intervals, theoperating rate is computed based on the total operating time within thetime period of one hour. (For example, when the operating time in theone-hour time period is 45 minutes and the remaining 15 minutes isstandby, the operating rate is 75%.)

[0059] This is repeated for each one-hour time interval to create datafor graphic display. The data of operating status of each componentmanaged by the managing section 11 is based on the start time and endtime of the job and it is managed per job.

[0060] The operator panel 20 of the printer apparatus 1 has the displaysection 20 a and an operating section 20 b, as shown in FIG. 3. Thedisplay section 20 a, for example, is a dot-matrix type liquid crystaldisplay panel, which is provided in the left half of the operator panel20, for example.

[0061] The upper surface of the liquid crystal display panel makes up atransparent (light transmissive) touch panel (tablet). Touching aportion of the touch panel with a finger where the liquid crystaldisplay panel displays a key causes a mode signal to enter the CPU 18,indicating that the key has been operated. The key portion of the liquidcrystal panel is displayed in different modes (different colors,different shapes) to indicate that it has been operated. Further, theliquid crystal display panel is designed such that the entire displayscreen scrolls horizontally and vertically as required.

[0062] The other half, e.g., the right half, of the operator panel 20has various keys, including mode selecting keys (selecting section), ajob status key, numeric keys, a clear (C) key, an all clear (AC) key,and a print key. The mode selecting keys are provided to select anoperating mode (processing mode) of the printer apparatus betweenoperating modes of a PRINT job, a FAX job, and a COPY job. The jobstatus key is provided to check the progress of the print job. Thenumeric keys arc provided to enter a quantity of prints. The clear (C)key is used to partially clear a mode. The all clear (AC) key is used tocompletely clear a mode. The print key is used to instruct a start of aprint job.

[0063] To the right of the job status key is disposed a current statuskey (instructing section) 20 c. One feature of the present invention isthat the current status key 20 c is used to instruct the printerapparatus 1 to display (graphic display) an operating status of eachcomponent of the printer apparatus 1. Thus, operating the current statuskey 20 c creates graphic display of an operating status in the displaysection 20 a of the operator panel 20.

[0064]FIG. 4 shows information of a managing table 22 as an example ofan operating status monitored data list of the printer apparatus 1managed by the managing section 11.

[0065] Examples of information managed by the managing table 22 includestimes, paths (modes) of entry, document size information, image sizeinformation, sheet size information, and a quantity of prints, withrespect to each job for processing image data that is entered througheach interface. The number of managing headings may be increased ordecreased as need arises. (For example, a status of a post-processingdevice with respect to printed sheets may be added.)

[0066] Further, the managed data (managing table), which is managed in amemory section (not shown) of the printer apparatus 1 in this example,may alternatively be provided in a separate device from the printerapparatus 1, or in a peripheral device that can communicate with theprinter apparatus 1.

[0067]FIG. 5 shows an example of graphic display. In this example, thedisplay section 20 a displays the result of data processing in theprocessing section 12 of the printer apparatus 1, in which the counteddata of each month is processed based on the operating status monitoreddata to graphically display the data. In this way, the processingsection 12 of the printer apparatus 1 displays the operating status ofthe printer apparatus 1 based on monitored data of the monitored statusstored in the managing section 11 (managing table), so that theoperating status of the printer apparatus 1 within a predetermined timeperiod, which may be daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly, can be graspedat a glance in reference to each time scale (in time series).

[0068] As described, operating the current status key 20 c of theoperator panel 20, when accompanied by a request for graphic display ofthe operating status of the printer apparatus 1, causes the processingsection 12 to create graphic display based on information managed by themanaging section 11.

[0069] The information of the operating status in the form of graphicdisplay is displayed in the display section 20 a of the operator panel20 by the CPU 18. The information of the operating status in the form ofgraphic display, other than being displayed in the display section 20 a,may be outputted as a print image from the recording section 19 of theprinter apparatus 1, or outputted to an electronic apparatus, such asthe externally provided personal computer 4 that can communicate withthe printer apparatus 1 via a network.

[0070] The graphic display of the operating status is designed such thatthe activity rate of the apparatus can be grasped on the basis of a timescale or time, using the horizontal axis as a time axis.

[0071] Further, the horizontal axis representing time can be switched toshow different time scales, such as day, week, month, and year, usingthe keys of “PRINT COUNTS”, “SCANNER COUNTS”, and “FAX COUNTS”(selecting section), so that an operating status within a predeterminedtime period can be grasped. That is, it is possible to create graphicdisplay of an operating status of the printer apparatus 1 within aspecific time period.

[0072]FIG. 6 is graphic display of an annual operating status in theform of a line chart (the same as FIG. 5 except for the non-displayportion). Shown in the display screen of FIG. 6 is level display(graphic display) of the operating status in year 2001, which wasobtained by counting an operating status on a monthly basis.

[0073]FIG. 7 is graphic display of a monthly operating status in theform of a bar chart. Shown in the display screen of FIG. 7 is leveldisplay of the operating status in October 2001, which was obtained bycounting an operating status on a daily basis. FIG. 8 is graphic displayof a weekly operating status in the form of a bar chart. Shown in thedisplay screen of FIG. 8 is level display of the operating status in thefirst week of October 2001, which was obtained by counting an operatingstatus on a daily basis. FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are graphic display of adaily operating status. Shown in the display screens of FIG. 9 and FIG.10 is level display of the operating status in a day, which was obtainedby counting an operating status of Oct. 12, 2002 on an hourly basis.

[0074] [Second Embodiment]

[0075] In a Second Embodiment of the present invention, the processingsection 12 of the printer apparatus 1, based on the operating statusmonitored data of the apparatus managed by the managing section(managing table) 11, creates graphic display of an operating status ofeach processing unit, such as the scanner apparatus (scanner unit) 3 andthe FAX unit 15, of an apparatus complex connected to the printerapparatus 1, in addition to creating graphic display of an operatingstatus for the printer apparatus 1, so that the operating status can begrasped at a glance, as shown in FIG. 11 through FIG. 13.

[0076] As described above, operating the current status key 20 c of theoperator panel 20, when accompanied by a request for graphic display ofthe operating status of the apparatus complex, causes the processingsection 12 to create graphic display based on information managed by themanaging section 11. The information of the operating status in the formof graphic display is displayed in the display section 20 a of theoperator panel 20 by the CPU 18, as shown in FIG. 6 through FIG. 10.

[0077] The information of the operating status in the form of graphicdisplay, other than being displayed in the display section 20 a, may beoutputted as a print image from the recording section 19 of the printerapparatus 1, or outputted to an electronic apparatus, such as theexternally provided personal computer 4 that can communicate with theprinter apparatus 1 via a network.

[0078] In principle, operating the current status key 20 c firstindicates (displays) the operating status (print counts) of the printerapparatus 1 in the form of graphic display.

[0079] The graphic display of the operating status is designed such thatthe activity rate of the apparatus can be grasped on the basis of a timescale or time, using the horizontal axis as a time axis.

[0080] Further, the horizontal axis representing time can be switched toshow different time scales, such as day, week, month, and year, usingthe keys of “YEARLY”, “MONTHLY”, “WEEKLY”, and “DAILY” (selectingsection), so that an operating status within a predetermined time periodcan be grasped. That is, it is possible to create graphic display of theoperating status “PRINT COUNTS” of the printer apparatus 1 within aspecific time period.

[0081] That is, the “PRINT COUNTS” is graphic display of an operatingstatus of a print job, which is entered in a printer mode, a copy printmode, or a FAX reception print mode, etc., in the printer apparatus ofthe apparatus complex.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel of the display section 20a has the “SCANNER COUNTS” key, “FAX COUNTS” key, and “TOTAL COUNTS”key, in addition to the “PRINT COUNTS” key.

[0083] The “SCANNER COUNTS” KEY is used to create graphic display of anoperating status of a document image scan job (copy document scan mode,FAX transmission document scan mode, e-mail attached document scan mode)in the scanner apparatus 3 connected to the printer apparatus 1 in theapparatus complex, as shown in FIG. 11.

[0084] The “FAX COUNTS” key is used to create graphic display of anoperating status of a send/receive job (FAX sending mode and FAXreceiving mode via a conventional telephone line, Internet FAX sendingmode and Internet FAX receiving mode using an e-mail function) of theFAX unit 15 connected to the printer apparatus 1 in the apparatuscomplex, as shown in FIG. 12.

[0085] The “TOTAL COUNTS” key is used to create graphic display of anoperating status of a system complex of the printer apparatus 1, thescanner apparatus 3, and the FAX unit 15, as shown in FIG. 13.

[0086] In the graphic display screens of “SCANNER COUNTS”, “FAX COUNTS”,and “TOTAL COUNTS”, an operating status within any time period can bedisplayed in graphic display, as shown in FIG. 6 through FIG. 10, byoperating the keys of “YEARLY”, “MONTHLY”, “WEEKLY”, and “DAILY” thatare displayed substantially in the right half of the display screen ofthe display section 20 a, as shown in FIG. 11 through FIG. 13.

[0087] [Third Embodiment]

[0088] In a Third Embodiment of the present invention, a user is able tomake a reservation for a new print job, observing the graphic display ofthe operating status of the printer apparatus 1.

[0089] A reservation for a new job can be entered by operating the“RESERVATION” key (reservation instructing section) that is providedsubstantially in the right half of the display screen of the displaysection 20 a in the operator panel 20 of FIG. 5 (the same for thescreens of FIG. 6 through FIG. 9).

[0090] For example, when the “RESERVATION” key is operated in thegraphic display of the operating status in the time scale of a day asshown in FIG. 10, the screen displays reservation instructing display asshown in FIG. 14. The CPU (reservation mark displaying section) 18displays a reservation icon at a time location that corresponds to thecurrent time. In case where a reserved job already exists, anotherreservation icon indicating “RESERVED” is also displayed.

[0091] The user sets a reservation time by moving the reservation iconto a desired time location, using a reservation time setting key a and areservation time setting key b. Observing the graphic display of theoperating status, the user checks the displayed information in thegraphic display for his or her reference. If a job has been reservedalready, the user reserves a new job, avoiding the already reserved job.Operating the “OK” key (reservation completion instructing section) onthe upper right side of the screen completes setting the reservationtime and displays a screen for selecting a reservation mode. The displaywaits for further instructions for making a job reservation.

[0092] Here, the user selects a mode for the reserved job from “COPY”,“FAX”, and “PRINT”. For example, when the user selects a “COPY”reservation, a normal copy mode selecting screen as shown in FIG. 16 isdisplayed and the user enters instructions for the reserved document ina copy mode.

[0093] With the reserved document placed on an automatic document feederof the scanner apparatus 3, operating the copy button on the operatorpanel 20 starts reading the reserved document. The data of the reserveddocument so read is converted one after another into image data andstored in a memory as image data of the reserved job.

[0094] Selecting a “FAX” reservation displays a normal FAX sending modeselecting screen as shown in FIG. 17, and the user enters instructionsfor the reserved document in a sending mode. With the reserved documentplaced on the automatic document feeder of the scanner apparatus 3,operating the copy button on the display panel 20 starts reading thereserved document. The data of the reserved document so read isconverted one after another into image data and stored in a memory asimage data of the reserved job.

[0095] Selecting a “PRINT” reservation displays a list of print jobsthat are stored in a print BOX (memory) of the printer apparatus 1 ofFIG. 18 (the list of print jobs is stored in the memory of the printerapparatus 1 at the request of the personal computer 4 via the network).From these print jobs, the user selects a job that corresponds to thereserved job. Operating the copy button on the operator panel 20 managesthe job as image data of the reserved job.

[0096] As described, making a reservation for a “COPY” mode, a “FAX”mode, and a “PRINT” mode graphically displays the operating status, asshown in FIG. 19 or essentially FIG. 14. The user is then able toconfirm on the graphic display that the job reservation has beencompleted.

[0097] As described, the user is able to make a job reservation in atime scale as he or she desires, after confirming the operating statusof each component. (job reservations are set in the same manner.) Theforegoing described the user procedures for making a new job reservationby observing the operating status of the apparatus.

[0098] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0099] For stable operations of each component of the electricallycontrolled apparatus such as the printer apparatus 1 and for ensuredimage recording, it is essential that the electronically controlledapparatus be inspected and expendables be replaced and adjusted. Theadministrator of the electronically controlled apparatus usually decideswhen to place the apparatus for regular inspection by confirming theoperating status of the electronically controlled apparatus. Ideally,the electronically controlled apparatus should be inspected when it isnot too busy.

[0100] In order to eliminate the administrator's inconvenience of goingto the site of the apparatus and confirm the operating status thereof, aFourth Embodiment of the present invention enables a user to control andconfirm the electronically controlled apparatus from a remote locationvia communication paths 2 such as a telephone line or a network, or byusing communicating means such as radio transmission.

[0101] To this end, the managed data of the managing table 22 of FIG. 4,which is provided on the side of the printer apparatus 1, is sent to aterminal of the administrator via the communicating means. The manageddata is processed in the terminal to create graphic display of themanaged data.

[0102] Alternatively, the graphic display may be created in the printerapparatus 1 and sent to the terminal of the administrator in the form ofimage data. Here, in principle, the graphic display is created in themanners described in the foregoing First through Third Embodiments.

[0103] In order to find the time the apparatus may be temporarilyarrested for regular inspection without causing problems, theadministrator, when externally confirming an operating status of theelectronically controlled apparatus via the communication paths 2,switches the graphic display, for example, from monthly display to dailydisplay, so as to narrow down the timing the apparatus may be arrested.

[0104] Because a regular inspection temporarily arrests the entireoperation of the electronically controlled device, a priority is givento the graphic display of an operating status of the entireelectronically controlled apparatus. Knowing the operating status of theapparatus, the administrator makes a reservation for a regularinspection in the same manner as that for making a job reservation, asdescribed in FIG. 14.

[0105] Specifically, the administrator makes an inspection reservationby moving an inspection reservation icon to an appropriate timelocation, using the reservation time setting key a and the reservationtime setting key b, as shown in FIG. 20. Operating the “OK” key entersthe inspection reservation into the printer apparatus 1 for schedulemanagement and completes the reservation. In the example of FIG. 20, inorder to make a reservation for a regular inspection at around 18:00,the reservation time setting key b is used to move the reservation icontoward the 18:00 o'clock position and the “OK” key is operated tocomplete the reservation.

[0106] Once the reservation for a regular inspection is made, theschedule management data (inspection reservation information) isreflected in the graphic display of an operating status of theelectronically controlled apparatus when the operating status isconfirmed. This helps the user to confirm the schedule when making a jobreservation.

[0107] Note that, the environment where the administrator is allowed toexternally confirm the operating status of the electronically controlledapparatus may be brought to the user environment using the personalcomputer 4 on the network. This allows the users to confirm theoperating status of the electronically controlled apparatus and make ajob request to the electronically controlled apparatus from the locationof the personal computer 4.

[0108] The criteria used to distinguish the administrator from commonusers are as follows. The printer apparatus 1 has a normal mode, inwhich common users use the printer apparatus 1 in an ordinary manner,and an inspection mode (distinguishing section), in which theadministrator inspects and adjusts the printer apparatus 1.

[0109] Between these two modes, a transition is made to the inspectionmode when the administrator enters specific operations in the normalmode (e.g., entry of a command or password by key operations, keyswitching, giving instructions upon receipt of a command viacommunications). A transition from the inspection mode to the normalmode is made by similar operations.

[0110] Operating the current status key 20 c in the normal modegraphically displays an operating status of each component as a userguide, allowing the user to make a job reservation using the graphicdisplay, for example. On the other hand, operating the current statuskey 20 c in the inspection mode graphically displays an operating statusas a guide for the administrator, allowing the administrator to make areservation for maintenance (inspection, adjustment) using the graphicdisplay.

[0111] [Fifth Embodiment]

[0112] (Confirming an operating status and an optimum level)

[0113] Referring to FIG. 5, the processing section 12 of the printerapparatus 1, based on the operating status monitored data of theapparatus managed by the managing section (managing table) 11, createsgraphic display of an operating status of each processing unit, such asthe scanner apparatus (scanner unit) 3 and the FAX unit 15, of anapparatus complex connected to the printer apparatus 1, in addition tocreating graphic display of an operating status for the printerapparatus 1 (printer unit), so that the operating status can be graspedat a glance.

[0114] In the present embodiment, the current status key 20 c is used toconfirm the optimum level of the electronically controlled apparatus,and the print annual status is displayed first. This is because theavailability of the printer apparatus 1 in the last year should beunderstood from the data of graphic display in the display section 20 a.

[0115] As described earlier, operating the current status key 20 c inthe operator panel 20, when accompanied by a request for graphic displayof the operating status of the apparatus complex, causes the processingsection 12 to create the graphic display based on information managed bythe managing section 11. The information of the graphically displayedoperating status is then displayed in the display section 20 a of theoperator panel 20 by the CPU 18.

[0116] For example, as shown in FIG. 21, the CPU 18 explicitly displaysan optimum level (optimum line), which indicates a projected processingability of the printer apparatus 1, in the graphic display. This helpsthe user to decide whether the operating status of his or herelectronically controlled apparatus such as the printer apparatus 1 isat its optimum level.

[0117]FIG. 22 is a magnified view of the display screen of the displaysection 20 a in the operator panel 20 of FIG. 21, showing level displayof an annual operating status that was obtained by counting theoperating status of year 2001 on a monthly basis. FIG. 23 is graphicdisplay of a monthly operating status that was obtained by counting theoperating status of October 2001 on a daily basis.

[0118]FIG. 24 is graphic display of a weekly operating status that wasobtained by counting the operating status of the first week of October2001 on a daily basis.

[0119]FIG. 25 is graphic display of a daily operating status that wasobtained by counting the operating status of Oct. 12, 2001 on an hourlybasis.

[0120] As described, the “PRINT COUNTS” is graphic display of print jobs(print jobs entered in a printer mode, copy print mode, FAX receptionprint mode) in the printer apparatus 1 of the apparatus complex. Knowingthe graphically displayed operating status of the printer apparatus 1with respect to the whole apparatus and each unit (mode) of theapparatus, one can access the need for a new system (replacement,addition, or removal of the system) that is suitable for the systemenvironment.

[0121] Further, by selecting the “SCANNER COUNTS”, “FAX COUNTS”, or“TOTAL COUNTS”, its optimum level can easily be confirmed.

[0122] The present invention differs from prior art in the followingrespects. Japanese Publication for Unexamined Patent Application No.277580/1991 (Tokukaihei 3-277580; published on Dec. 9, 1991) disclosesmeasuring time and counting cycles of print operations of the printer soas to manage the total time each printer is used. However, the inventionof this publication merely finds the total operating time of the printersince the time the printer was installed. This is different from thepresent invention that finds the operating status in a given time scale.

[0123] Japanese Publication for Unexamined Patent Application No.134142/1999 (Tokukaihei 11-134142; published on May 21, 1999) teachesconfirming the current operating status of the printer on the client'sside. The invention of this publication merely finds the currentoperating status, not the operating status in a given time scale.

[0124] Further, Japanese Publication for Unexamined Patent ApplicationNo. 227299/1999 (Tokukaihei 11-227299; published on Aug. 24, 1999)teaches managing operating history information, including total printcounts, print counts of a day, the number of processed jobs, the numberof paper jams, and the frequency of paper jams, so as to inform themanaged information upon receipt of a request from outside. Theinvention of this publication merely manages the past operating statusin the form of data and informs the data in response to a request fromoutside. This is different from the present invention that finds theoperating status (operating history) in a given time scale.

[0125] As described, an electronically controlled apparatus of thepresent invention includes: an input-output section, whichelectronically processes and outputs input data; a control section,which electronically controls the input-output section according tooperating status data of each component of the input-output section; amanaging section, which monitors the operating status data of eachcomponent of the input-output section, so as to store and manage theoperating status data with corresponding time information of theoperating status data; and a processing section, which creates graphicdisplay of the operating status data in a given time scale according tothe operating status data and the time information.

[0126] According to this configuration, by the provision of theprocessing section that creates graphic display of the operating statusof each component, the operating status of each component can begraphically displayed. This enables an operator to visually confirm aload on each component and its surrounding environment, allowing theoperator to give new instructions or consider other options based on thegraphically displayed operating status.

[0127] The foregoing configuration is also advantageous for theadministrators. Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators toperform daily management, such as replenishing of expendables such aspaper or a developer, so as to prevent operations of each component frombeing arrested.

[0128] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes aninstructing section, which instructs the processing section tographically display the operating status data.

[0129] According to this configuration, the instructing section givesinstructions for graphically displaying managed operating status datawith regard to an operating status of each component. This enables thecorresponding data of the operating status to be graphically displayedas required (when it is effective) based on the managed operating statusdata, thereby enabling the operator to easily confirm the operatingstatus of each component.

[0130] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes asetting section, which sets a time scale for the processing section tocreate the graphic display of the operating status data.

[0131] According to this configuration, the operating status isgraphically displayed in a given time scale of a predetermined timeperiod (hour, week, month). This makes it easier to grasp the operatingstatus of each component and thereby makes the apparatus moremanageable.

[0132] As described, another electronically controlled apparatus of thepresent invention includes: a plurality of processing units, eachincluding an input-output section, which electronically processes andoutputs input data; and a control section, which electronically controlsthe input-output section according to operating status data of eachcomponent of the input-output section; a managing section, whichmonitors the operating status data of each component of each processingunit, so as to store and manage the operating status data withcorresponding time information of the operating status data; and aprocessing section, which creates (processes) graphic display of theoperating status data in a given time scale according to the operatingstatus data and the time information.

[0133] According to this configuration, the operating status of theapparatus complex is graphically displayed for each processing unit(scanner unit, printer unit, fax unit, etc.). This enables an operatorto visually confirm a load on each processing unit and its surroundingenvironment.

[0134] Thus, the foregoing configuration allows the operator to moreaccurately give new instructions or consider other options based on thegraphically displayed operating status of each processing unit. Theforegoing configuration is also advantageous for the administrators.Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators to perform dailymanagement, such as replenishing of expendables such as paper or adeveloper, so as to prevent operations of each component of eachprocessing unit from being arrested.

[0135] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes aselecting section, which selects one of the processing units, so as tocause the processing section to create graphic display of an operatingstatus of the selected processing unit.

[0136] According to this configuration, the operating status of aprocessing unit, whose operating status needs to be confirmed, isgraphically and selectively displayed among the plurality of processingunits that are installed in the apparatus complex. This enables anoperator to visually confirm a load on a selected processing unit andits surrounding environment. Thus, the foregoing configuration allowsthe operator to give new instructions or consider other options based onthe graphically displayed operating status concerning the selectedprocessing unit. The foregoing configuration is also advantageous forthe administrators. Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators toperform daily management, such as replenishing of expendables such aspaper or a developer, so as to prevent operations of each component ofeach processing unit from being arrested.

[0137] As described, yet another electronically controlled apparatus ofthe present invention is an electronically controlled apparatus with aplurality of processing modes for data processing, the processing modesbeing provided for an input-output section that electronically processesand outputs input data, the electronically controlled apparatusincluding: a managing section, which monitors operating status data ofthe processing modes, so as to store and manage the operating statusdata with corresponding time information of the operating status data;and a processing section, which creates (processes) graphic display ofthe operating status data in a given time scale for each processing modeaccording to the operating status data and the time information.

[0138] According to this configuration, the operating status of each ofthe processing modes of the apparatus complex is graphically displayed.This enables an operator to visually confirm a load on each processingmode and its surrounding environment, allowing the operator to give newinstructions or consider other options based on the graphicallydisplayed operating status of each processing mode. The foregoingconfiguration is also advantageous for the administrators. Namely, itmakes it easier for the administrators to perform daily management, suchas replenishing of expendables such as paper or a developer, so as toprevent operations of each component of each processing mode from beingarrested.

[0139] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes aselecting section, which selects one of the processing modes, so as tocause the processing section to create (process) graphic display of anoperating status of the selected processing mode.

[0140] According to this configuration, the operating status of aprocessing mode, whose operating status needs to be confirmed, isgraphically displayed selectively among the plurality of processingmodes that are installed in the apparatus complex. This enables anoperator to visually confirm a load on the selected processing mode andits surrounding environment.

[0141] Thus, the foregoing configuration allows the operator to give newinstructions or consider other options based on the graphicallydisplayed operating status concerning the selected processing mode. Theforegoing configuration is also advantageous for the administrators.Namely, it makes it easier for the administrators to perform dailymanagement, such as replenishing of expendables such as paper or adeveloper, so as to prevent operations of each component of eachprocessing mode from being arrested.

[0142] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes anoverall status instructing section, which instructs the processingsection to graphically display (process) an operating status of theelectronically controlled apparatus as a whole, according to theoperating status managed by the managing section.

[0143] According to this configuration, the operating status of theapparatus complex as a whole is graphically displayed. This enables anoperator to visually confirm availability of the apparatus as a wholeand its surrounding environment. Thus, the foregoing configurationallows the operator to confirm whether the apparatus is operatingproperly as a system (a set of components) and thereby enables theoperator to consider other system options more reliably. The foregoingconfiguration is also advantageous for the administrators. Namely, itmakes it easier for the administrators to perform daily management, suchas replenishing of expendables such as paper or a developer, so as toprevent operations of the system from being arrested.

[0144] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes acommunicating section, which sends and receives data that contain theoperating status data.

[0145] According to this configuration, the provision of thecommunicating section allows the operator to confirm, for example via anetwork, the graphic display of the operating status of each component(processing mode, etc.) of the electrically controlled apparatus of apredetermined time period.

[0146] This enables the operator, for example, the administrator toconfirm the operating status of each component of the electricallycontrolled apparatus via a network, without necessitating theadministrator to go to the site of the apparatus.

[0147] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes adistinguishing section, which distinguishes an administrator from atleast common users, the setting section setting the time scale accordingto the result of distinction between the administrator and at leastcommon users.

[0148] According to this configuration, the operator is allowed toautomatically switch a time period of graphic display. For example, theadministrator can choose graphic display of a monthly operating status,whereas a common user can choose graphic display of a daily operatingstatus. That is, switch to a desired display mode can be made morequickly.

[0149] The electronically controlled apparatus may further include areservation section, which displays a reservation icon, so as to make areservation for an inspection.

[0150] According to this configuration, the operator can make areservation for a regular inspection to the reservation section, afterconfirming the graphic display of the operating status of each componentof the electrically controlled apparatus of a predetermined time period.That is, the operator can schedule an inspection, which may be carriedout on a regular basis, by making a reservation according to theoperating condition of each component. This minimizes undesirableeffects of an inspection, such as the inconvenient temporal arrest ofthe apparatus when the apparatus is busy, with respect to users of theelectrically controlled apparatus.

[0151] The electronically controlled apparatus may further include acompletion displaying section, which displays completion of thereservation for inspection.

[0152] According to this configuration, the operator can confirmcompletion of the inspection reservation on the graphic display. This isadvantageous both for the administrator and common users because theycan confirm completion of the inspection reservation and the presence ofan inspection reservation (time of visit, time of arrest). That is, theapparatus can be used more conveniently by avoiding the reserved time ofan inspection and allowing the inspection to be carried out withoutcausing troubles.

[0153] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes: adisplay section, which displays the graphic display that was processedin the processing section; and a reservation instructing section, whichmakes a reservation for a new job for the each component according tothe displayed graphic display.

[0154] According to this configuration, a job reservation is made afterconfirming the graphic display of the operating status of each componentof a predetermined time period. This enables the job reservation to bemade in reference to the past operating status (patterns), therebyenabling the operator to make a job reservation so as to process thereserved job more efficiently.

[0155] Further, by the provision of the setting section, any time period(month, day) can be set for the graphic display of the apparatusoperating status. This enables the operator to confirm the operatingstatus of the apparatus by narrowing down the time period successively.As a result, reservations can be made more accurately and the reservedjob can be processed more efficiently.

[0156] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes areservation mark displaying section, which displays, when there alreadyexists a job reservation, the reserved job on the graphic display whenthe graphic display of the operating status data of the each component,created by the processing section, is displayed.

[0157] According to this configuration, a reserved job, if any, is alsodisplayed on the graphic display. This enables the operator to make areservation by confirming the operating status of each component of theapparatus and the reservation status, thereby more accurately makingreservations without overbooking with another job.

[0158] The electronically controlled apparatus preferably includes areservation completion indicating section, which displays the new jobreservation made by the reservation instructing section, the reservationbeing displayed on the graphic display of the operating status of theeach component, created by the processing section.

[0159] According to this configuration, a reservation can be confirmedin the graphic display. This enables the operator to make reservationsby confirming the operating status of the apparatus and confirm thereservations on the graphic display, thereby avoiding a reservationerror.

[0160] The electronically controlled apparatus may further include anoptimum level displaying section, which graphically displays an optimumprocessing level of the each component on the graphic display of theoperating status data.

[0161] According to this configuration, an optimum level of theoperating status of each component can be determined by confirming theoperating status of each component of a predetermined time period andthe optimum processing ability of each component on the graphic display.That is, the foregoing configuration enables the operator to confirm theoperating status and optimum level of each component, thereby enablingthe operator to consider new system options that are suitable for theuser environment.

[0162] Further, by the provision of the setting section, any time period(month, day) can be set for the graphic display of the apparatusoperating status. This enables the operator to confirm the patterns ofthe operating status, whether the operating status is exceeding itslimits only temporarily or permanently.

[0163] Further, according to the foregoing configuration, by theprovision of a plurality of processing modes such as different imageprocessing modes, or a plurality of processing units, the operator canconfirm the operating status and optimum level for each processing modeor processing unit. That is, the operator can confirm the operatingstatus and optimum level of each apparatus component for each mode oreach processing unit of the apparatus. This allows the operator toconsider new system options according to the user environment.

[0164] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that thesame way may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, andall such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art areintended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronically controlled apparatus,comprising: an input-output section, which electronically processes andoutputs input data; a control section, which electronically controls theinput-output section according to operating status data of eachcomponent of the input-output section; a managing section, whichmonitors the operating status data of each component of the input-outputsection, so as to store and manage the operating status data withcorresponding time information of the operating status data; and aprocessing section, which creates graphic display of the operatingstatus data in a given time scale according to the operating status dataand the time information.
 2. The electronically controlled apparatus asset forth in claim 1, further comprising: an instructing section, whichinstructs the processing section to graphically display the operatingstatus data.
 3. The electronically controlled apparatus as set forth inclaim 1, further comprising: a setting section, which sets a time scalefor the processing section to create the graphic display of theoperating status data.
 4. The electronically controlled apparatus as setforth in claim 3, further comprising: a distinguishing section, whichdistinguishes an administrator from at least common users, said settingsection setting the time scale according to a result of distinctionbetween the administrator and at least common users.
 5. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising: a communicating section, which sends and receives data thatcontains the operating status data.
 6. The electronically controlledapparatus as set forth in claim 1, further comprising: a reservationsection, which displays a reservation icon, so as to make a reservationfor an inspection.
 7. The electronically controlled apparatus as setforth in claim 6, further comprising: a completion displaying section,which displays completion of the reservation for an inspection.
 8. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising: a display section, which displays the graphic display thatwas processed in the processing section; and a reservation instructingsection, which makes a reservation for a new job for the each componentaccording to the displayed graphic display.
 9. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 8, further comprising: areservation mark displaying section, which displays, when there alreadyexists a job reservation, the reserved job on the graphic display whenthe graphic display of the operating status data of the each component,created by the processing section, is displayed.
 10. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 8, further comprising: areservation completion indicating section, which displays the new jobreservation made by the reservation instructing section, the reservationbeing displayed on the graphic display of the operating status of theeach component, created by the processing section.
 11. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising: an optimum level displaying section, which graphicallydisplays an optimum processing level of the each component on thegraphic display of the operating status data.
 12. An electronicallycontrolled apparatus, comprising: a plurality of processing units, eachincluding an input-output section, which electronically processes andoutputs input data; and a control section, which electronically controlsthe input-output section according to operating status data of eachcomponent of the input-output section; a managing section, whichmonitors the operating status data of each component of each processingunit, so as to store and manage the operating status data withcorresponding time information of the operating status data; and aprocessing section, which creates graphic display of the operatingstatus data in a given time scale for each processing unit according tothe operating status data and the time information.
 13. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 12, furthercomprising: a selecting section, which selects one of the processingunits, so as to cause the processing section to graphically display anoperating status of the selected processing unit.
 14. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 12, further comprising: anoverall status instructing section, which instructs the processingsection to graphically display an operating status of the electronicallycontrolled apparatus as a whole, according to the operating statusmanaged by the managing section.
 15. The electronically controlledapparatus as set forth in claim 12, further comprising: a communicatingsection, which sends and receives data that contain the operating statusdata.
 16. The electronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim12, further comprising: a reservation section, which displays areservation icon, so as to make a reservation for an inspection.
 17. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 16, furthercomprising: a completion displaying section, which displays completionof the reservation for an inspection.
 18. The electronically controlledapparatus as set forth in claim 12, further comprising: a displaysection, which displays the graphic display that was processed in theprocessing section; and a reservation instructing section, which makes areservation for a new job for the each component according to thedisplayed graphic display.
 19. The electronically controlled apparatusas set forth in claim 18, further comprising: a reservation markdisplaying section, which displays, when there already exists a jobreservation, the reserved job on the graphic display when the graphicdisplay of the operating status data of the each component, created bythe processing section, is displayed.
 20. The electronically controlledapparatus as set forth in claim 18, further comprising: a reservationcompletion indicating section, which displays the new job reservationmade by the reservation instructing section, the reservation beingdisplayed on the graphic display of the operating status of the eachcomponent, created by the processing section.
 21. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 12, further comprising: anoptimum level displaying section, which graphically displays an optimumprocessing level of the each component on the graphic display of theoperating status data.
 22. An electronically controlled apparatus with aplurality of processing modes for data processing, the processing modesbeing provided for an input-output section that electronically processesand outputs input data, said electronically controlled apparatuscomprising: a managing section, which monitors operating status data ofthe processing modes, so as to store and manage the operating statusdata with corresponding time information of the operating status data;and a processing section, which creates graphic display of the operatingstatus data in a given time scale for each processing mode according tothe operating status data and the time information.
 23. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 22, furthercomprising: a selecting section, which selects one of the processingmodes, so as to cause the processing section to graphically display anoperating status of the selected processing mode.
 24. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 22, further comprising: acommunicating section, which sends and receives data that contain theoperating status data.
 25. The electronically controlled apparatus asset forth in claim 22, further comprising: a reservation section, whichdisplays a reservation icon, so as to make a reservation for aninspection.
 26. The electronically controlled apparatus as set forth inclaim 25, further comprising: a completion displaying section, whichdisplays completion of the reservation for an inspection.
 27. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 22, furthercomprising: a display section, which displays the graphic display thatwas processed in the processing section; and a reservation instructingsection, which makes a reservation for a new job for the each componentaccording to the displayed graphic display.
 28. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 27, further comprising: areservation mark displaying section, which displays, when there alreadyexists a job reservation, the reserved job on the graphic display whenthe graphic display of the operating status data of the each component,created by the processing section, is displayed.
 29. The electronicallycontrolled apparatus as set forth in claim 27, further comprising: areservation completion indicating section, which displays the new jobreservation made by the reservation instructing section, the reservationbeing displayed on the graphic display of the operating status of theeach component, created by the processing section.
 30. Theelectronically controlled apparatus as set forth in claim 22, furthercomprising: an optimum level displaying section, which graphicallydisplays an optimum processing level of the each component on thegraphic display of the operating status data.